1. A teacher might like to observe another teacher’s class to learn something specific:
• how a particular topic is taught
• how technology is used
• how the children are engaged
• how discipline is handled.
2. A teacher might like to be observed in order to solve a problem or make something better:
• tweak a lesson plan or teaching strategy
• get feedback on classroom management or evaluation methods
• improve interactions with particular students.
All teachers should make time for an observation. The accompanying forms can be used to guide the observation process. Teachers should take notes on the form as they work through the steps, but no formal report is required. A copy of the observation form and notes should be given to the Professional Growth Coordinator for retention in teachers’ Professional Growth files.
Observation Form Type #1: Observing Others
Step 1: Reflections
I plan to observe . . .
to learn more about . . .
I am interested in exploring this topic because . . .
Step 2: Pre-Visit Conversation: discuss reflections in Step 1 and set up an observation time.
Step 3: Observation
Describe the relevant activities observed.
How will I use what I have observed?
Step 4: Post-Visit Conversation: Make a plan for incorporating what you learned. Ask your colleague to observe you and give feedback.
Reflection: How did things go? If it wasn’t completely successful, why?
What did you learn from this experience and how will you share with others through the PDNing?
Observation Form Type #2: Problem-Solving
Step 1: Reflections
I would like to be observed by . . .
because I would like to get feedback about . . .
Step 2: Pre-Visit Conversation: discuss reflections in Step 1 and set up an observation time.
Describe the relevant activities to be observed.
Step 3: Post-Visit Conversation
Summarize what the observer noticed.
What worked?
What didn’t? Why? Would another observation help?
Step 4: Reflection and sharing
What did I learn from this experience that I can share with others through the PDNing?
Teacher Observations – Draft #1
There are two kinds of observations:
1. A teacher might like to observe another teacher’s class to learn something specific:
• how a particular topic is taught
• how technology is used
• how the children are engaged
• how discipline is handled.
2. A teacher might like to be observed in order to solve a problem or make something better:
• tweak a lesson plan or teaching strategy
• get feedback on classroom management or evaluation methods
• improve interactions with particular students.
All teachers should make time for an observation. The accompanying forms can be used to guide the observation process. Teachers should take notes on the form as they work through the steps, but no formal report is required. A copy of the observation form and notes should be given to the Professional Growth Coordinator for retention in teachers’ Professional Growth files.
Observation Form Type #1: Observing Others
Step 1: Reflections
I plan to observe . . .
to learn more about . . .
I am interested in exploring this topic because . . .
Step 2: Pre-Visit Conversation: discuss reflections in Step 1 and set up an observation time.
Step 3: Observation
Describe the relevant activities observed.
How will I use what I have observed?
Step 4: Post-Visit Conversation: Make a plan for incorporating what you learned. Ask your colleague to observe you and give feedback.
Reflection: How did things go? If it wasn’t completely successful, why?
What did you learn from this experience and how will you share with others through the PDNing?
Observation Form Type #2: Problem-Solving
Step 1: Reflections
I would like to be observed by . . .
because I would like to get feedback about . . .
Step 2: Pre-Visit Conversation: discuss reflections in Step 1 and set up an observation time.
Describe the relevant activities to be observed.
Step 3: Post-Visit Conversation
Summarize what the observer noticed.
What worked?
What didn’t? Why? Would another observation help?
Step 4: Reflection and sharing
What did I learn from this experience that I can share with others through the PDNing?
Observation Form #2: Being Observered